It is important that the devastating impact sleep apnea can have on sufferers never be discounted. In fact, the acquisition of additional knowledge about the subject makes it clear how true that really is. By reading the tips and information below, you will have a better understanding of the seriousness of sleep apnea and how its symptoms can be effectively managed.
Consider using a mouth guard when you sleep. If your jaw is improperly aligned, this could lead to issues with sleep apnea. The alignment of your jaw has a lot to do with whether or not you are getting sufficient airflow. Being fitted for a mouth guard can help your breathe while it’s correcting the problem.
Try yourself to sleep on your side. If you fall asleep on your back, gravity can make it easier for your tongue and/or tonsils to fall back into your throat and obstruct your windpipe, causing apnea episodes. While it may be hard a first, as time passes, however, it will start to become second nature to sleep on your side.
Do not let sleep apnea ruin your relationship. If your partner has difficulties sleeping next to you because of your snoring or other symptoms linked to sleep apnea, communicate about the problem. be understanding and consider sleeping apart or getting a CPAP machine to reduce your snoring and other symptoms.
If you suspect that you have a sleeping disorder, but are unsure, enter a sleep study. They may be able to diagnose your disorder as sleep apnea and make suggestions regarding treatment. Treatments include mouth guards, CPAP, diet changes, and modifications of sleeping habits. You won’t know your options until you speak with someone about it.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, it’s very important for you to sleep on your side. Avoid sleeping on your back at all costs, as this position does not allow enough air to get into your airways. To prevent yourself from sleeping on your back, put a tennis ball in the back of your pajamas.
If you have sleep apnea you should not smoke. Your sleep apnea will worsen because smoking causes swelling in the upper respiratory system. Second-hand smoke is just as damaging to the respiratory system as first-hand smoke. Usually the first 30 or so days is the hardest part. Once you are past the first few weeks, the nicotine craving begin to lessen significantly.
If you use a continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP machine to treat your sleep apnea, sleep with it every night. When you take the mask off at night, your symptoms will return. Sometimes they might disappear for one or two nights, but then return. Wearing the mask every night prevents episodes of sleep apnea from occurring.
If you have sleep apnea and use a CPAP, try to replace your mask and hose every six months. Most insurance policies allow for a new mask and hose every six months, and some allow you to replace them every three months. The mask can stop fitting well after several months of use, and the hose can develop small cracks or holes that let air leak. Replace these items to keep getting the best CPAP therapy possible.
There should be no argument regarding the potentially debilitating impact of sleep apnea on those afflicted by it. Widespread understanding of the condition and its effects is critical to combating the disruptions it can cause in the lives of many. Keeping the information above close at hand is a good way to do your part to promote awareness and find solutions to this very serious problem.
